That reduction in mortality is critical in Washington state where we have one of the highest rates of newly diagnosed breast cancer in the country.

“There’s all sorts of things going around, is it because of low vitamin-D levels, certainly we all wonder that. I know there is research being done, but it’s still an unknown, but it is absolutely true and even more necessary that women in the Pacific Northwest get annual mammogram screenings,” said Stone.

For Phillips, “I’m 52 years old,” she said adding she’s been getting her check-up out here every year.

“It so eases it. You just have to do it, bite the bullet and get it done,” said Phillips.

And if you can get screened and sip on some wine, all the more reason to cheers to good health.